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In Wisconsin in 1856, the LaCrosse and Milwaukee Railroad…

“In Wisconsin in 1856, the LaCrosse and Milwaukee Railroad got a million acres free by distributing about $900,000 in stocks and bonds to fifty-nine assemblymen, thirteen senators, the governor. Two years later the railroad was bankrupt and the bonds were worthless.” quote by Howard Zinn
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““In Wisconsin in 1856, the LaCrosse and Milwaukee Railroad got a million acres free by distributing about $900,000 in stocks and bonds to fifty-nine assemblymen, thirteen senators, the governor. Two years later the railroad was bankrupt and the bonds were worthless.””

Howard Zinn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Political corruption allowed railroads to grant massive land and financial favors to legislators, leading to eventual bankruptcy and loss for investors.

In simple terms: Politicians received huge benefits, then the railroad failed.

Key Takeaway

Beware of short‑term gains that hide long‑term risk.

Themes

politics corruption economics history law

Mood

cautious critical reflective

Type

historical political analytical

When to use this quote

  • legislative decisionmaking
  • investment analysis
  • public policy
  • historical research

Key Concepts

bribery land grants financial speculation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards could prevent similar abuses today?
  • How do short‑term incentives distort policy?
A Different Perspective

Such deals often ignore public interest and can cause systemic failures.

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